Oct 5, 2020
- It is critically important that we tackle the several clusters of the virus in the state where the positivity rate is elevated. To that end, schools in New York City — public and private — will temporarily close in-person learning starting tomorrow in hotspot ZIP codes identified by New York City. We need more data on the threat COVID-19 poses in these schools and we will review the data in affected ZIP codes and determine a path to reopening.
It is imperative that we stamp out each cluster of COVID so that they do not spread and jeopardize the progress our state made in combatting this virus. I remind all New Yorkers, no matter where they live, to follow all health guidelines and orders. Wear a mask, get tested and stay home if you have symptoms or have had close contact with someone who tested positive. Let's all look out for one another.
Photo of the Day: A sign in NYC reminds us that we are New York Tough
(Photo by Ali Wente)
Here's what else you need to know tonight:
1. To date, New York has conducted 11 million tests. We continue to lead the nation in testing and remember, any New Yorker who wants a COVID test can get tested. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms or believe you may have been exposed to someone positive for COVID, get tested. Find a testing site near you.
2. We are closely monitoring New York's infection rate. Yesterday, there were 636 total hospitalizations. Of the 76,404 tests reported yesterday, 933, or 1.22 percent, were positive. Sadly, we lost eight New Yorkers to the virus.
3. This Friday, October 9th, is the last day New Yorkers can register to vote in the 2020 Election. I encourage all New Yorkers to register to vote for this year's upcoming election. To register, you must be a U.S. citizen, a resident of the State and the county, city or village in which you are registering for at least 30 days before the election; and be at least 18 years old on or by November 3rd. Learn the ways you can register to vote here or check to make sure you are registered here.
4. The Nourish NY program has spent over $17 million to connect New York farms with families in need. So far, the initiative has ensured that 20.1 million pounds of dairy products have been distributed by food banks, along with approximately 6.1 million pounds of produce. Over 738,000 households have received products sourced from 4,140 farms through this initiative, which is helping keep businesses and families afloat.
Tonight's "Deep Breath Moment": Beatrice Lumpkin, a 102-year old former teacher in Chicago, didn't let the pandemic stop her from casting her vote this election. Born before women could vote, Bea dropped off her mail-in ballot last week in a full pink and white hazmat suit while surrounded by fellow Chicago Teachers Union members. If Bea can vote, so can you.
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